Most Common Hardware Issues in Windows PC

“My computer was performing slower than usual, and then it got stuck during boot.” This is a problem one of our readers was experiencing. While helping them resolve this issue, we realised that hardware issues are quite common and that many others may be struggling with them as well.

Hence, we compiled this comprehensive guide containing the most common hardware problems and solutions. Most of these issues can be resolved at home with simple steps, offering quick and effective fixes to keep your PC running smoothly. This reassurance allows you to tackle hardware problems with confidence. However, let’s begin with a quick overview of what a hardware issue means and how to diagnose typical computer hardware issues.

What Is a Hardware Issue

Simply put, hardware issues are problems that occur in the physical components of a computer, preventing them from functioning correctly. These issues may arise from factors such as component wear and tear due to use, high temperatures (overheating), sudden power surges, and physical damage (caused by reasons such as spills, drops, or poor handling of the device).

How to Diagnose Hardware Issues In a Computer

To find if a hardware problem is plaguing your computer, you can follow the step-by-step guide below. 

• Look for symptoms: Recognise the symptoms of hardware issues in the computer, such as slow performance, overheating, strange noises, and critical system errors (for example, Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)).
• Perform a thorough visual inspection: Inspect your computer thoroughly to detect physical damage (cracks, dents, etc.), check cables and ports (ensure the cables are securely connected to their ports). Also, remove dust from fans, vents, and other components using compressed air.
• Run diagnostic tools: If possible, run built-in diagnostic tools, such as Windows Memory Diagnostic, Event Viewer, or Disk Check (chkdsk), to identify and analyse hardware issues and system events.
• Check hardware components: After completing the initial diagnostic, check specific components that are commonly responsible for hardware problems, such as RAM, hard drive, CPU, GPU, and power supply unit. You can use software such as Memtest86+, CrystalDiskInfo, and Core Temp to perform these checks. These tools are generally safe and beginner-friendly. As a tip for first-time users, follow the tool’s instructions carefully and search for tutorials if needed to boost your confidence while performing these checks.
• Stress test the hardware: Perform hardware stress tests to detect hardware components that may fail under load using software such as Prime 95 for CPU testing and FurMark for GPU testing.
• Perform system log monitoring: Monitor system logs to get information about hardware errors and performance problems. You can use the Windows Event Viewer to find critical errors, alerts, or recurring events that signal a hardware issue.

You can go through the guide below to solve the most common problems if you diagnose an issue with the hardware. 

What Are the Top 10 Common Problems of Computer Hardware (With Solution)

Below are the most common hardware-related issues on a PC and their solutions. 

Issue 1: Slow PC

Over time, the fast-as-a-leopard computer performance becomes tortoise-slow due to hardware issues. It is the most frustrating when the PC takes ages to complete even the basic tasks, such as opening applications on your computer. The factors responsible for this problem may include insufficient memory, too many background processes, outdated software, a virus infection, or hard drive fragmentation. 

Solution for the PC slowing down problem

Here is a detailed guide with step-by-step solutions, including restarting your computer, updating Windows, running the Windows 10 program compatibility troubleshooter, managing automatic startup programs, performing a disk cleanup, uninstalling unnecessary programs or apps, temporarily disabling OneDrive syncing, and optimising visual settings on Windows 10 to fix a computer that runs slowly. 

Issue 2: PC overheating

Heat is a natural result of a computer’s operation. However, when this heat exceeds the normal CPU temperature, i.e., 30°C and 45°C when idle and 60°C–80°C when performing heavy tasks, it is known as overheating. PC overheating can permanently damage critical components, such as the CPU, GPU, and motherboard. 

Hence, you must recognise the early signs of computer overheating, including random shutdowns or restarts, fans making loud noises (running at high speeds), performance throttling (slowing down of your CPU or GPU, leading to performance degradation), excessive heat from the casing, graphical glitches, screen freezes, or a system crash. 

Also know: How to Fix the Most Common Printer Issues, Like the Printer Not Working, Printer Not Connecting, and More

Solution for overheating in a computer

To manage heat on your PC, place the computer in a well-ventilated space, regularly clean your PC using a soft brush/compressed air, monitor system temperature using one of the best CPU temperature monitoring tools, upgrade your cooling system (add more case fans, install a liquid cooling system, update the CPU cooler, or get a cooling pad (for laptops)), and re-apply the thermal paste between your CPU/GPU and the heat sinks. 

Additionally, since too many programs running simultaneously can cause PC overheating, close unnecessary programs and browser tabs, run a malware scan on your computer, and apply the best system cooling policy settings. 

Issue 3: USB port not working

USB ports allow you to connect various peripherals to your computer. Hence, if the USB port is not working, you may be unable to connect different devices, leading to a frustrating experience. 

Solution for a dysfunctional USB port

The USB port not working is among the top hardware issues users commonly encounter. However, you can fix it effortlessly by restarting your computer, updating or reinstalling USB drivers, and checking power management settings (Apply the Win+X shortcut, click Device Manager, double-click Universal Serial Bus Controllers, right-click USB Root Hub device, choose Properties, navigate to the Power Management tab, uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power, and repeat these steps for all USB Root Hubs). 

You can also disable the USB Selective Suspend setting to fix the USB port. To do so, search and open Control Panel, navigate to the Power Options, choose Change Plan Settings for your existing plan, click Change Advanced Power Settings, click USB Settings, click USB Selective Suspend Setting, and set the USB Selective Suspend Setting to Disabled for both On Battery and Plugged In. 

Issue 4: Hard drive failure

Hard drive failure, another common hardware issue, can lead to multiple problems, such as system crashes and data loss, as this is where everything (such as the operating system, personal files, and applications) is stored. 

Hence, you must be watchful of signs, such as frequent Blue Screens or crashes, files becoming corrupted/disappearing, the hard drive making unusual noises (like whirring, grinding, or clicking), and slow computer performance to detect hard drive issues at an early stage. 

Solution for hard drive failure

Before beginning any hardware troubleshooting, it is crucial to back up your data to prevent accidental loss. This step is especially vital when you suspect a hard drive failure. Once your data is secured, run diagnostic tests to check your drive’s status using built-in tools, such as CHKDSK, and the best ways for SSD and HDD disk health check in Windows PC.

Issue 5: Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting

The internet is indispensable for many of us, as most of our work happens over the internet. However, Wi-Fi not connecting or disconnecting is among the common hardware issues you may encounter. The reasons for Wi-Fi problems may include the Wi-Fi being disabled or an active Airplane Mode, entering the wrong Wi-Fi password, outdated network adapter drivers, router problems, and an incompatible Wi-Fi network. 

Solution for Wi-Fi issues on the computer

You can fix the Wi-Fi problems by moving your PC closer to the router, checking the power management settings to “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power,” and other effective fixes in this guide to fix the PC not being able to sign in to Wi-Fi in Windows. 

Issue 6: Touchpad not working in the laptop

For laptop users, a dysfunctional touchpad is among the most common hardware problems. A non-functional touchpad is a serious cause of concern since the touchpad is the primary pointing and scrolling device on laptop computers. 

Solution for the touchpad not working problem

The touchpad may not work for a variety of reasons, such as an outdated or incompatible touchpad driver, accidentally disabling the touchpad, or incorrect settings. However, you can fix this issue easily by downloading and installing the latest touchpad drivers and other fixes in this quick and effective guide to fix the touchpad not working in laptop issues. 

Issue 7: Unusual fan noises

A noisy fan, in addition to being annoying, is an indication of accumulated dust, fan blade damage, worn bearings, or obstructions that prevent the fan from maintaining optimal operating temperatures. 

Also know: How to Fix the White Screen of Death in Windows 10

Solution for fan noises

You can quiet the fan noise by removing the dust buildup and cleaning the fan blades using compressed air, ensuring nothing touches the fan blade or impedes its rotation, tightening loose screws, and controlling the fan speed using the best fan speed controllers.

Issue 8: Motherboard problems

The motherboard is responsible for connecting and coordinating all the hardware components. Everything, ranging from the CPU to storage devices and peripherals, depends on the motherboard to function properly. However, motherboard problems are common hardware issues that hinder productivity and performance. 

Hence, be alert whenever you notice your computer doesn’t power on, peripheral components (such as USB ports, expansion slots, or audio jacks) are dysfunctional, your PC makes strange beeping sounds, the system randomly crashes or freezes, there’s no display, you feel a burning smell or visible damage, or the system behaves erratically. 

Solution for motherboard issues

You can fix the motherboard problems by inspecting the motherboard for visible damage, ensuring power cables, data cables, and peripheral connectors are properly connected, following the steps in your motherboard’s manual or the BIOS manufacturer’s website to tackle the beep codes on startup, disconnecting all non-essential components (such as expansion cards and extra drives), resetting the BIOS, updating the BIOS, or replacing the motherboard. 

Issue 9: RAM (memory) problems

The Random Access Memory (RAM) problems are among the most critical hardware issues, as this short-term memory is essential for applications and processes to run smoothly. RAM malfunctions can cause a range of problems, such as frequent system crashes, slow performance, and a complete system failure. 

Hence, you must be aware of frequent system crashes and Blue Screens, sluggish system performance, system failing to boot up, corrupted files or data loss, random application crashes, and erratic system behaviour (for instance, random freezes, restarts, or glitches) to detect RAM issues early. 

Solution for RAM (memory) issues

You can solve the RAM problems by checking the RAM sticks for physical damage (for instance, cracks or burns), testing RAM with built-in diagnostic tools like Windows Memory Diagnostic, carefully reseating the RAM, testing RAM modules individually if you have multiple RAM sticks, updating BIOS/UEFI, replacing a faulty RAM stick with a one that is compatible with your system, and upgrading to faster or higher-capacity RAM. 

Issue 10: Virus or malware infection

Another frequently encountered hardware issue is a virus/malware infection. These infections put your data and privacy at risk, in addition to damaging your system. Hence, be watchful of signs of an active infection, such as unexpected pop-up ads, browser homepage changes, strange network activity, slow system performance, and missing or corrupted files. 

Solution for computer viruses or malware infection

To fix an infected PC, activate and use Windows Security. Additionally, you can scan your computer using the best antivirus software, such as Bitdefender Total Security, Norton 360, and TotalAV. 

After solving the most common hardware issues, you can prevent their recurrence by following the tips in the next section. 

How to Prevent Hardware Issues

Below is how to avoid hardware problems on your computer. 

• Regularly clean your PC to ensure there is no accumulation of dust and debris.
• Periodically (once in week or biweekly) run diagnostics using the built-in diagnostic tools.
• When building or buying a computer, ensure you invest in quality components from reliable manufacturers, as they last longer and encounter fewer hardware issues.
• Follow all the guidelines correctly while installing a hardware component, as incorrect installation can cause physical damage or compatibility problems.
• Use a good-quality surge protector to protect your PC’s components from voltage fluctuations.
• Regularly update your hardware drivers and operating system to fix bugs, apply security patches, and improve compatibility with various software.
• Always shut down your PC properly using the “Shutdown” button or the appropriate software options.

Common Hardware Issues: The Conclusion

That’s all for the commonly occurring hardware problems, resulting in slow performance, crashes, overheating, or unusual noises. Occurring due to wear and tear, manufacturing defects, accidental damage, power issues, environmental factors (such as excessive dust), and improper installation, these issues are effortlessly fixable and preventable by following the solutions in the guide above. If they remain unresolved, you may need to contact a professional technician for help. 

However, if you have any questions, suggestions, or feedback about this article, you can contact us through the comments section.